Nothing is sacred in the modern world, and security is an issue that needs to be considered by almost every organization that involves a significant number of people. Unfortunately, this is even true of churches, as almost all larger churches today have security measures in place, often involving the presence of one or more security guards.

Crime and the Modern World

Unfortunately we live in a society of great inequality between citizens, which produces social tensions that lead to a high crime rate. When you throw in the related drug and alcohol addiction problems that have increased dramatically over the last few decades, you have a social situation where security is required at most public places, including churches.

General Duties

The general duties of a security guard at a church usually include protecting the facility and employees and members from theft, fire, vandalism or other criminal activity. Most security guards patrol the premises (including the parking areas and buildings), but some are assigned to a station to monitor an area or be on call.

Other Possible Duties

Depending on the size and organizational structure of the church, the security guard could have many other responsibilities ranging from video monitoring to greeting/ushering, to screening people entering the building. In many smaller churches both security and janitorial services are performed by the same employee.

Salary for Security Guards

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2008 security guards in the U.S. earned a median annual salary of $23,460. The lowest 10 percent of security guards earned less than $16,680, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $39,360.